The electronic clock displays numbers as shown in. Wrist watch. Characteristics of wrist watches

Wrist watch– a device worn on the wrist displays the current time; some models include a calendar, barometer, pedometer, and compass.

Based on the principle of action they are divided into:

• mechanical,
• electronic,
• quartz.

Types and types of wristwatches

The first criterion when choosing a watch is the type of mechanism.

Quartz (electromechanical)

The operation of the mechanism is based on quartz - quartz sets the step frequency of the stepper micromotor, which drives the hands. Mainly used for the manufacture of women's products, since they are small and there is no room for the mechanism.

They are accurate and have an affordable price. There are also expensive quartz models made of precious metals. The peculiarity is that they do not need to be started; it is enough to change the battery every two to three years.

Electronic

This is a type of quartz movement, that is, the heart of the models is quartz, but unlike quartz watch, the step frequency is set not to the stepper motor, but to the generator sending signals to the microprocessor. The main difference is the digital display, where the time and other indicators of additional functions are displayed on the display.

Electronic watches are popular - inexpensive and show exact time. There are models in which the time is indicated by “arrows” (electronic dial).

Mechanical

Mechanical models - the mechanism operates on the principle of a gearbox. The clock is powered by the compression of a spring and its gradual deployment. Unwinding, the spring drives the gears, the timing accuracy and service life depend on the material used in the manufacture of the gears, and the crystals on which they are fixed (stones).

In luxury watches, the documentation indicates the number of stones in the mechanism; precious stones are used; in budget models, artificial material is used.

The product is started by a head located on the body. Mechanical watches do not need to change any power sources.

Service life reaches 50 years. It is enough to start them at the right time.

Characteristics of wrist watches

Anti-reflective glass coating

Anti-reflective glass improves the visual perception of the dial or electronic display. Regular glass reflects light, creates glare. Anti-reflective coating solves this problem - it is a durable product that will require a lot of effort to break.

In budget models, the glass is covered with a film with an anti-reflective function. Disadvantage: the coating comes off over time.

Water resistance and tightness classes

Resistance to moisture and dirt is determined by the tightness of the accessory. The water resistance of the accessory is made due to rubber seals, over time (3-4 years) they dry out and need to be replaced. Moisture and dirt do not get into such products, which increases the service life of the mechanism and its accuracy.

Moisture resistance is usually accompanied by impact resistance of the glass and case.

And in simple classic accessories this characteristic is not uncommon. Their tightness class is lower, but sufficient for everyday wear.

Models' water resistance ratings are displayed on the back of the product or at the bottom of the dial.
They are measured in atmospheres (ATM), which is not equivalent to immersion meters:

There are five classes of water resistance:

• Class 1– the product simply states that they are waterproof (water resistant) without specifying atmospheres and meters – the internal elements are equipped with seals, but are not sufficiently protected from moisture penetration. The mechanism is protected from dust, moisture and dirt, but is not intended for swimming, diving, taking a shower or bath, or accidentally falling into water - in such models you can carefully wash your hands.
• Class 2– 3 atm (30 m). The product is suitable for hand washing and exposure to rain. However, you cannot swim or shower in it.
• Class 3– 5 atm (50 m). 3rd class can withstand immersion in water to a depth of 30 cm. After swimming in salt water sea ​​water the product needs to be washed fresh water and dry, but not on a heater, but naturally. You cannot dive in such models.
• Class 4– 10 atm (100 m). The device is designed for those who like to snorkel. Scuba diving is not recommended.
• Class 5– 20, 30 atm (200-300 m). Designed for divers. They can withstand water pressure for 3 hours. The case is shock-resistant, the mechanism is protected from the penetration of dirt and moisture.

Energy source

Applicable types of power supplies:

• Batteries;
• Solar panels;
• Kinetic rotor charging the battery, built into a quartz movement;
• Mechanical spring winding, with or without automatic winding.

Batteries for quartz accessories are changed once every 2-3 years. Solar panels last a long time because they receive energy from daylight.

Batteries (kinetic rotor) - the principle of operation is similar to the self-winding mechanism in mechanical watches, but while rotating, the rotor does not wind a mechanical spring, but generates electricity by recharging the battery.

Mechanical accessories receive energy from winding the spring using a head. It is located at the end of the body. Many models are equipped with self-winding, that is, the mechanism is wound by hand movement.

Total weight of precious metal

Often, consumers believe that gold-plated products should be accompanied by an indication of the total weight of gold. However, this is not quite true.

Watches made of solid gold and those with gilding should not be confused. Not stamped on gold-plated or silver-plated models total weight precious metal.

Gold plating is applied to the body of the product using the electroplating method, that is, gold, silver or platinum are partially present in the form of sputtering. In this case, in the documentation the manufacturer indicates the coating thickness and sample, but these indicators are not always indicated - it depends on the manufacturer.

Accessories made from solid gold, silver or platinum are accompanied by stamps from the manufacturer and the institution that accepted the goods at customs if it was imported from another country. The manufacturer indicates the total weight of the precious metal, excluding precious stones.

Shock resistance

Shockproof means protecting the main elements of the mechanism from shaking during/after an impact.

The presence of shock resistance is indicated by the manufacturer on the cover and in the accompanying documentation. The protection of the mechanism includes the type of glass and case material - mineral glass, sapphire, plastic or titanium.

Skeleton

Skeleton – design solution, characteristic only for mechanical models. However, there are also quartz models with a transparent case. But they don't look so impressive.

The owner can see the working gears and can see the structure of the mechanism. Elements of the mechanism are often decorated precious stones, apply ornaments.

When choosing skeletons, you should pay attention to the type of glass and impact resistance. These factors affect the service life of the product and its safety. Sapphire crystal does not scratch and remains “clean” for a long time. For a skeleton, this is a must, as scratched glass will ruin appearance generally.

Time display method

Display methods:

• Analogue – arrows;
• Digital;
• Combined;
• Binary.

Analog- This classic way display. It is characteristic of mechanical watches, as well as quartz ones. Expensive models are often available with an analog version.

Digital– typical only for electronic ones. This inexpensive models and often accompanied by additional functions.

Combined– assumes both analogue and digital display. Typical for quartz watches.

Binary– hours and minutes are displayed as glowing points, sticks or geometric shapes each hour is assigned a specific color - suitable for puzzle lovers.

Glass - type and strength

Types of glass used:

• Plastic glass;
• Sapphire;
• Mineral.

Plastic– common and inexpensive option. In the production of watches, a type of plastic is used, which depends on the purpose - for sports and children's models they use plastic with high degree impact resistance; budget models use organic glass.

Sapphire crystal– made from crystal grown artificially. Only a diamond will scratch a sapphire crystal. Increased resistance to mechanical damage does not mean that it will withstand any load. Sapphire crystal is usually inserted into the case of expensive models.

Mineral glass– popular in watchmaking. This durable material, which resists scratches with a high degree of impact resistance. An accessory with mineral glass is not inferior to models with sapphire material.

The reliable and practical shape of the glass is flat, not convex. This type of glass is easy to change and is better resistant to external influences.

Accuracy

Accuracy refers to an error per day or month. Exist approved standards errors for mechanical and quartz watches.

For mechanical models, the error is ±40/60 sec. per day. If the error goes beyond the established limits, you should contact a specialist to adjust the stroke accuracy.

Quartz – error ±20 sec. per month and are considered one of the most accurate, also applies to electronic models.

The manufacturer indicates the model error in the product documentation; it is easy to check it yourself, for example, synchronize the clock with the exact time site and track deviations.

Chronometer

The word "chronometer" is used as a synonym for the term "watch", but a "chronometer" is a product with high accuracy stroke, an error of ±3 sec/day.

Clock face

There are 3 types of dials:

• switch;
• combined (mixed);
• digital;

and four types of markup:

• Arabic
• Roman
• combined (mixed)
• tags

Sometimes manufacturers, instead of classic Arabic or Roman numerals, embed creative different images into the dial.

The combined dial is used in quartz models - there are classic hands and an electronic digital display.

Markers are used in mechanical and quartz models - in the form of sticks, dots without indicating the digital hours or minutes.

Depending on the manufacturer and model, up to 3 additional dials are built into mechanical and quartz watches. for different time zones - so when traveling to another country or region, the user does not have to adjust the time.

Second hand

The seconds indicator is located either on the main dial or placed on a separate one. The arrow is built into both mechanical and quartz models. In electronic accessories, seconds are displayed in numbers.

Functions of a wristwatch

Automatic winding

With its help, you do not have to constantly wind the mechanism with the head. The accessory is wound automatically by hand movement using a kinetic rotor.

Disadvantages: the product is bulky. Automatic winding is a complex mechanism that takes up a lot of space in the case. Its presence automatically makes the frame thicker and heavier.

The disadvantage has an undesirable effect on women's accessories; for this reason, manufacturers do not produce mechanical models with automatic winding for women.

GPS

IN modern models watches have a built-in GPS system. It tracks your location, builds routes, and remembers your route.

Detailed atlases are loaded into the wrist gadget. The display shows a map with latitude and longitude indicators, arrows indicate the path, color resolution limited to 100 dpi.

Accessories are divided into categories:

• Children's tracker watches with navigator;
• Sports watches with GPS;
• GPS and compass;

Alarm clock and vibration signal

The alarm clock in mechanical watches is a vibrator - it works from a separate cocking drum, as a result of which the models are bulky and heavy; quartz models use a piezo speaker - a tweeter. In electronic models, the alarm clock works the same as in quartz models.

Electronic products based on Android are inextricably linked with the smartphone. Developed here the whole system upon a person's rise in the morning. The device calculates the phases of sleep and wakes you up when it is easier for a person to wake up.

There's a whole lot of sleep science put into Android wrist alarms. The accessory tactfully awakens by vibration. If a person does not wake up, a melody begins to sound.

The vibration signal function is confused with an alarm clock. Although, in essence, the characteristics are similar. Vibration signal is a function in watches for those who need to do something during the day at a given time. For example: athletes whose entire regimen is scheduled minute by minute, right up to eating.

The vibration signal is configured according to the principle of setting an alarm clock. The signal is triggered exactly set time. The vibration intensity varies depending on the model. This function is used as an alarm clock. But keep in mind that the vibration signal is lower in intensity than sounds.

Perpetual calendar and moon phase indicator

The function appeared after the ability to display the date in wristwatches, based on the Gregorian or Jewish calendars - solar and lunar. The watch displays information about leap years, quarters, number of days in a month.

Together with the chronology, it is built into the mechanism moon calendar– indicates what phase the Earth’s satellite is in.

Built-in memory

It is used for storing and transmitting a small amount of information - it works on the principle of a flash drive, but in the form of a clock. The mechanism is equipped with a mini-USB port at the end of the case.

Often, GPS watches are equipped with built-in flash memory of 64, 128, 256 and 512 MB. When connected to a PC, they are detected as a standard flash drive, that is, driver installation is not required.

Second time zone

Watches with a second time zone have a standard dial, hands, and additional functions. However, on the bezel, or the area free from the dial, there is a scale. It shows the main cities in different time zones.

By simply pressing a button (electronic) or turning the rotary ring (mechanical), which is located on the case, you can instantly determine the time in another time zone.

Instead of city names, numbers are put down - indicating the time in different parts of the world according to Greenwich Mean Time. The display and operation of the subscale varies. The principle of operation of the second time zone is described by the manufacturer in the product instructions.

The second time zone scale does not affect the accuracy of the movement - it is an independent mechanism.

Altimeter

The function is designed and based on measurement atmospheric pressure. Taking into account the fact that the pressure fluctuates in one place, the altimeter readings are displayed with a small error of ±2-3 m; the function is inextricably linked with the barometer readings.

Pay attention to the type of altimeter - barometric or satellite - which is less common, since such models are expensive. Barometric altimeters are more reliable.

Depth gauge

Types of depth gauges used:

• Depth gauges operating according to the Boyle-Mariotte law - capillary and piston;
• Mechanisms operating on the principle of a Bourdon tube;
• Membrane;
• Diaphragm;
• Strain gauge.

A membrane depth gauge is considered reliable and accurate. In the first two types of mechanism, the visibility of indicators in the devices is minimal, and in conditions of poor visibility it is difficult to understand the measurements.

Strain gauge depth gauges appeared relatively recently and have not yet proven themselves to be the most reliable. However, today they are characterized by good accuracy of readings.

Notebook

Consumers often confuse the “Address Book” function with the “Phone Directory”.

The first one contains much more information, but the amount of total memory depends on the model and its content. An address book is required to back up data: passwords, phone numbers.

Models with this feature vary - models with a built-in keyboard on the watch face or with a slide-out keyboard (Android models have a touch keyboard). Main indicator when choosing an accessory with a notebook, this is the size of the memory. All information in it is password protected.

Please note that any additional feature increases the size of the case and the weight of the watch.

Power reserve indicator

Mechanical watches, with and without self-winding, are equipped with a power reserve indicator - made in the form of a scale divided into time intervals.

The display of indicators on the dial varies depending on the model and manufacturer.

The function is built into models, the platoon of which lasts from 3 to 10 days. That is, restrictions by type mechanical device No. If you constantly forget to wind the winder, the power reserve indicator will become an indispensable assistant in this case.

Compass

The built-in compass is as accurate as in classic version. The module is built either into the case or separately on the belt. Last method typical for mechanical models.

There are compasses that work on the classical principle - magnetic, and electronic ones - built into models with GPS - the route indicated by the navigator is displayed using compass indicators, the route is indicated by arrows, and a compass is displayed next to it. It's convenient in hiking trips– you know where to go and where you are.

The indicator readings are visible in the dark thanks to the LED backlight.

Display and arrow backlight

Illumination of the dial and hands are divided according to the type of light element:

• Electroluminescent;
• LED;
• Light-accumulating;
• Tritium based.

Electroluminescent– activated by an additional button built into the body. When pressed, the display lights up for a few seconds. The downside of this backlight is the quick failure of the display.

LED- These are LEDs built into the dial. They illuminate well, come into action when you press an additional button, or equip accessories with automatic LED backlight. Activates as soon as the lighting becomes insufficient for comfortable view display.

Light accumulative– the composition is applied to the hands and indicators of the dial – zinc sulfide or strontium aluminate (different for a long time services). Luminous accumulating backlight needs to be recharged from a light source.

Tritium based backlight are small flasks filled with gas, which is based on tritium. This chemical element emits radiation, but in doses that are safe for humans. Moreover, radiation is completely absorbed by the glass of the case, which is absolutely safe.

The service life of the backlight is up to 25 years. The Tritium Light feature has no additional buttons and does not require charging.

If the function is needed constantly, then tritium-based backlighting will be the best option.

Stopwatch and chronograph

These two functions are often equated, and the words are used as synonyms. However, this is not quite true. A stopwatch is a module in which the second hand is connected to the main clock mechanism. That is, when you press the button that stops the second hand, the entire mechanism stops.

The dial symbols of devices with a stopwatch are different; they do not look like the classic version.

A chronograph is a module independent of the main mechanism, with the help of which time intervals are counted and the results are recorded. To control the module, two or three buttons are built into the case, depending on the complexity of the indicator.

A chronograph is a must-have component in a watch for people working in the following fields:

• Medicine;
• Sports;
• Military Affairs;
• Aviation;
• Navy;
• Science and Research.

From one to several hands are built into the mechanism - “split chronographs”. Thanks to this, measurements are taken of two phenomena at once with different time intervals. Such complex module equipped with three control buttons on the body.

There are models in which different areas activities, chronographs have their own measurement scale.

Tachymeter

On chronograph watches, the scale is built into the outer circle of the case and is marked 60, 120. Also on such products it will be marked “Tachymeter”.

To start the module, you need to press a button. Once the movement is completed, the result is recorded using another button.

Additionally, it will be useful for measuring the distance between sound phenomena. For medical workers The chronograph has a pulse and blood pressure measurement scale.

Heart rate monitor

The heart rate monitor tracks your heart rate.

Main advantages of the function:

• Heart rate counting;
• Choose optimal mode training based on collected heart rate monitor data;
• Calculate optimal time to restore heart rate after exercise;
• Plan optimal distance for walking or running based on heart rate monitor data.

The heart rate monitor will also be useful for older people suffering from heart disease.

Radio synchronization

“Radio synchronization” is the adjustment of time indicators in wrist accessories based on atomic clock data.

Information is received via a built-in radio module from radio towers installed in different parts of the world (one tower is capable of transmitting a signal over a distance of up to 1,500 km). The module is configured once, then automatic adjustments are made.

Countdown timer

The device is counting down required quantity minutes or hours specified by the user - the function is similar to the stopwatch, but differs in that the timer countdown counts down specified period time.

Many watch models are equipped with several timers - the owner sets and configures time intervals with notification of the end of each.

Thermometer

Special sensors are built into the watch, which determine the air temperature with a high degree of accuracy.

The module is activated using a button. By clicking on it, the indicator will be displayed on the dial in the designated window.

Pedometer

Pedometer – displays the number of steps for a certain period of time: hour, day, week. In each watch model, the functionality of this option is significantly different, for example, the lack of saving results in the form of a report.

First of all, you should decide on the type of mechanism. The type of energy source, battery or manual winding, will depend on this. The accessory should be easy to use for you.

Do not forget that each additional characteristic affects the weight and size of the product. A sports watch with all possible modules is massive and heavy, while an office watch is light and small.

When choosing mechanical accessories Special attention is paid to the protection of the case and the mechanism itself - impact resistance, water resistance and type of glass. These parameters determine the service life.

Manufacturers

Adriatica

The Adriatica company offers collections of classic and sports watches for women and men, products are distributed by dealers around the world. Releases a series of collections:

• Precious
• Diving
• Twin Motion
• Sophia
• Moonphase for Her
• Essence
• Vintage
• Moonphase for Him
• Pairs
• Aviation
• Portofino
• Passion
• Automatic
• Milano

Worldwide warranty available regardless of place of purchase, service maintenance 2 year warranty.

Anne Klein

The American brand Anne Klein produces Ladies Watch since 1970, in the production of collections:

• Time to Charme
• Crystal
• Diamond

including classic models for business women, elegantly combined with evening dresses, Ronda and Myota mechanisms are used to guarantee reliable operation.

Calvin Klein

The world-famous brand Calvin Klein, in addition to producing clothing and jewelry, produces and sells sports and youth collections of watches for men/women.

Casio

The Casio company, with branches throughout Europe in cities such as Moscow, Brussels, Barcelona, ​​London, Amstelveen, produces:

• electronic dictionaries;
• calculators;
• label printers;
• electronic musical instruments;
• digital cameras;
• portable terminals;
• cash registers;
• office computers;
• printers;
• wrist watch.

collections of classic wristwatches for men, women and Retro style:

• G-SHOCK
• BABY-G
• EDIFICE
• SHEEN
• PRO TREK
• RADIO controlled
• CASIO Sports

Citizen

The Japanese company Citizen has been producing wristwatches since 1936, production is not limited to watches, the product list includes car parts, electronic devices and components, as well as jewelry.

Diesel

Italian company Diesel without own production, but wristwatches, shoes, clothes, jewelry, and perfume are produced under the brand.

FOSSIL

Fossil's main focus is the development and production of expensive watches and jewelry, but it also produces bags, sunglasses, and belts. The first watch models were released in the USA in 1984. FOSSIL differs from other brands in its large assortment of vintage models. For women, it offers collections of watches in pink and gold tones. Models from of stainless steel and with leather straps are available for men and women, but men's models offer watches with a chronometer.

Jacques Lemans

Jacques Lemans for men, women, custom collections for women

• Anna Veith
• Kevin Costner
• Koko Mitsua
• Giorgia Gregorio
• Mohammed Abu Issa

Orient

The Orient brand offers consumers mechanical and quartz watches. The line of mechanical models includes automatic ones: classic, sports, diving, as well as pocket watches. In the line of quartz models you will find models in the style of NEO 70s, sports, classic. Women's elegant models of quartz watches are covered with gold and inlaid with stones.

Romanson

The Swiss company Romanson, founded in 1988, organized a global trading network in 70 countries and was the first in the world to produce watches with cut glass resembling a diamond cut.
Offers a series of collections:

• DEARBON
• PREMIER
• ACTIVE
• ELEVE
• CLASSIC
• MODERN
• SPORTS
• TROFISH

Seiko

The Japanese company Seiko, founded in 1881, produces watches, jewelry, electronic components and precision mechanics. Global network of companies located in Europe, Asia, USA and Japan.

Offers the consumer a collection:

• Grand Seiko
• Astron
• Prospex
• Presage
• Premier